When Molly and James learned their unborn son had congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) at a routine 20-week prenatal scan, their world turned upside down. CDH is a rare and life-threatening condition where a hole in the diaphragm allows abdominal organs to shift into the chest, preventing the lungs from growing properly. The couple’s doctors in central Illinois made it clear they lacked the expertise to treat this complex condition, but Molly and James were determined to find a solution. After extensive research, they discovered the Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), the world leader in treating CDH, and made the life-changing decision to travel there for care.
Upon arriving at CHOP, the family found hope in the hospital’s specialized team. Molly gave birth in the hospital’s Garbose Family Special Delivery Unit, where newborn Hugh received immediate care. At just 10 days old, Hugh underwent surgery to repair the hole in his diaphragm. While the recovery process was challenging, including a scare when Hugh developed a bowel obstruction, CHOP’s expert team acted quickly to resolve the issue, reinforcing the importance of having experienced specialists during critical moments.
Today, Hugh is a healthy and happy 10-year-old, full of energy and a love for sports. Although the family lives in Illinois, they frequently return to Philadelphia, where they’ve formed a deep bond with the city and the medical team that helped save Hugh’s life. Hugh proudly embraces his Philly roots, carrying a deep sense of pride for the place that gave him a second chance at life.
